Kneejerk Monday: Why everyone just needs to calm down after opening weekend

There is always an overreaction to the first game of the year. If the last few days worth of publications by national college football media is any indication, this year is no exception.

Some teams put their firepower in the first game. Others start out with building blocks for the season. Early games impact personnel situations for developing the best teams, not just great performances by one player.

College football does not have exhibition games like the NFL. What is needed for us to be fans again, enjoy the games, and stop deciding who will be in the playoffs after one game? When our focus is all on the four best teams at the beginning, we don’t enjoy the great competition of each game.

Last year, Georgia defeated South Carolina early. The Bulldogs ended with a record of 8-5, and the Gamecocks ended 11-2. Michigan began 6-0 and ended 7-6. Texas Tech begin 7-0 and ended the regular season 7-5. South Carolina struggled to beat little ol’ Central Florida and Golden Knights ended 12-1 with a BCS bowl victory to boot. Why don’t we allow a few games to be played before we put conclusive analysis on teams this year?